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How to Port From AT&T to T-Mobile

by Amy McClain

Number porting is regulated by the FCC and gives you the freedom to keep your wireless number even if you switch service providers. Moving from AT&T Wireless to T-Mobile can be accomplished in a few easy steps. T-Mobile will need some basic account information from you to initiate and complete the port. Your AT&T phone is not compatible with T-Mobile service unless it has been unlocked, so in most cases you will need a new phone.

Step 1

Enter your phone number into the "Phone1" field using the link in the Resources section.

Step 2

Follow the onscreen instructions to authorize the transfer. You will need to choose a T-Mobile service plan and phone (if desired). Provide your AT&T account details when prompted -- it may be helpful to have a recent AT&T invoice handy.

Allow approximately 24 hours for the number port to complete. Do not cancel your AT&T service -- your account must be open for the port to be successful. The AT&T services associated with your phone number will be canceled automatically when AT&T releases it to T-Mobile. In most cases, your AT&T phone will continue to work until the port is complete.

Tip

If you do not wish to complete the port and activation online, contact T-Mobile by calling 1-800-866-2453. You may provide the necessary information to a customer-service representative. You may also visit a T-Mobile retail location for assistance.

Warning

If your AT&T phone is still in contract, you may be responsible for early-termination fees when you port your number. Contact AT&T at 1-800-331-0550 to inquire about fees associated with canceling your account.

This article was written by the It Still Works team, copy edited and fact checked through a multi-point auditing system, in efforts to ensure our readers only receive the best information. To submit your questions or ideas, or to simply learn more about It Still Works, contact us.